Modular Socket Panel Layered Design for Tool-Free Reconfiguration
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional socket panels are limited in functionality and difficult to replace, as they require tools and pose safety risks due to bare electrical wiring, failing to meet evolving user demands for features like network connections and aesthetic integration with interior decor.
Innovation Solution
A modular socket panel design comprising a bottom layer fixed to a wall, a middle layer connected in a pull-and-plug manner, and a surface layer that can be easily detached and reconfigured without tools, incorporating components such as environmental sensors, network adapters, and controllers to expand functionality and facilitate easy replacement.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Stability of the object's composition
If conventional socket panels are designed as integrated units with fixed components, then structural stability is improved, but adaptability and ease of replacement deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The socket panel is divided into multiple independent layers including a bottom layer, middle layer, and surface layer. Each layer can be independently replaced or reconfigured. The bottom layer remains fixed to the wall for structural stability, while the middle and surface layers can be detached and reattached, enabling adaptability without compromising the overall structure.
2Reliability
If conventional socket panels use screw fastening methods, then connection reliability is improved, but ease of operation and replacement deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The traditional screw fastening mechanism is replaced with a snap-fit connection system. The middle layer and surface layer incorporate elastic components that enable tool-free attachment and detachment through simple insertion and pressing motions, while maintaining reliable electrical connections through the snap-fit mechanism.
3Ease of manufacture
If conventional socket panels expose bare electrical wiring for installation, then ease of manufacture is improved, but safety deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The dangerous bare electrical wiring is extracted and concealed within the bottom layer housing. Pre-installed connection terminals are enclosed inside the bottom layer, allowing users to connect wiring during manufacturing or initial installation without exposing live wires. The layered design enables subsequent replacements without any exposure to electrical components, eliminating safety risks for end users.
4Device complexity
If conventional socket panels are designed as single functional units, then device complexity is reduced, but adaptability and functionality deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The middle layer is designed as a universal platform that can accommodate various functional modules such as USB ports, network adapters, and smart home devices. This modular approach allows the socket panel to adapt to different functional requirements without increasing overall device complexity, as each module can be independently added or removed from the standardized middle layer interface.
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention discloses a modular socket panel which includes a bottom layer adapted to be fixed to an embedded case in a wall and adapted to be electrically connected to a power supply provided by the embedded case, and a surface layer adapted to be directly or indirectly connected to the bottom layer in a non-fastening manner. The surface layer provides a power socket, which is electrically connected to the bottom layer. The modular socket panel disclosed in the present invention enables a user to mount a middle layer and the surface layer onto the bottom layer or remove the middle layer and surface layer from the bottom layer without any tool, and also enables the user to mount different middle layers in the modular socket panel when needed to implement different functions, for example adding more intelligent functions.